In his speech, Lamallari highlighted that this draft law ‘is of particular significance, as it is closely linked to our international commitments, the protection of peace, the strengthening of the rule of law, and the important role we have consistently played in regional and broader security frameworks, as both a NATO member and an EU candidate country.
Lamallari stated that ‘Albania ratified the Rome Statute back in 2002, taking on clear obligations as part of the international community in the fight against the most serious crimes: genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes.’”
Today, with this draft law, we fulfill and strengthen this commitment by accepting amendments related to the crime of aggression, one of the most severe forms of violation of international peace and security,” he stated.

The Minister stated that ‘the proposed amendments were adopted by consensus by the state parties to the Rome Statute, through resolutions passed in 2010 and the activation of jurisdiction in 2017. These amendments have now been incorporated into the domestic legal frameworks of over 40 states, including European Union member states and key allies of Albania. Albania’s participation in this process reinforces its standing as a nation that actively contributes to the maintenance of the international legal order and global justice mechanisms.’

Lamallari also addressed the key novelties introduced by the draft law.

First and foremost, it offers a precise and comprehensive definition of the crime of aggression, through Article 8 bis, enumerating all forms of aggressive acts that constitute a blatant violation of the United Nations Charter. This is a critical standard for aligning our national legislation with international law.

Secondly, the amendments regulate the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court over this crime, both in cases where proceedings are initiated by a state party, as well as when the matter is referred to the Prosecutor by the UN Security Council. These provisions, included in Articles 15 bis and 15 ter, serve as guarantees for an international order based on principles, where no one is above the law.

“Thirdly, these amendments modify other provisions of the Statute, including Articles 9, 20, and 25, to ensure consistency in legal standards and to unequivocally clarify that criminal liability for the crime of aggression is solely attributed to individuals who hold effective authority to make political or military decisions at the state level,” he stated.

The Minister further affirmed that Albania remains unwavering in its commitment to the principles of international law.

“As a country aspiring to become an EU member and a state unwavering in its commitment to the principles of international law, Lamallari emphasized that ‘we must ensure the full alignment of our legislation with the obligations we have undertaken through the ratification of the Rome Statute. I believe that with the process we have initiated, the new Criminal Code will inevitably include a specific provision addressing this crime.’”

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